This is an independent project and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the health organisations represented. All identifying features have been removed from clinical discussions to ensure confidentiality. Content is for teaching and learning only and listeners should refer to their local policies, procedures and collaborators.
In this conversation, Kate, a nurse practitioner, discusses her journey into nursing, her role as an ICU outreach nurse, and the importance of communication in critical care settings. She shares a detailed case study of managing a cardiac emergency, emphasizing the use of ABC assessments and the role of family involvement during emergencies. The discussion highlights the collaborative nature of nursing and the evolving practices in critical care.
Takeaways
Summary
The conversation delves into the use of prednisolone in treating acute decompensated heart failure, highlighting its potential benefits and the need for further research.
Click here for a link to the discussed paper - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39211989/
Takeaways
Prednisolone is being explored for acute decompensated heart failure.
Small studies make it hard to draw big conclusions.
There are significant research gaps in heart failure treatment in this drug.
Future research is essential for better understanding.
Summary
In this conversation, Dr. Sarah Zaman, an interventional cardiologist and SCAD researcher, discusses the complexities of spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD), particularly its prevalence in women. She explains the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment approaches for SCAD, emphasizing the importance of recognizing it as a serious condition that can lead to heart attacks. The discussion also covers the establishment of a SCAD registry, findings related to treatment outcomes, and the challenges faced in managing SCAD patients.
Takeaways
SCAD is a significant cause of heart attacks in women.
Diagnosis of SCAD can be challenging and requires careful assessment.
Emergency departments must treat young women with chest pain as potential heart attack patients.
The SCAD registry aims to improve understanding and treatment of the condition.
Type 2 SCAD is associated with worse outcomes compared to other types.
Strong blood thinners may exacerbate SCAD complications.
Conservative management is often effective for SCAD patients.
Intravascular imaging is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Women often present later to emergency departments with SCAD symptoms.
Research is ongoing to better understand SCAD and improve patient care.
USEFUL LINKS
https://scadresearch.com.au/
https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/for-professionals/fp-spontaneous-coronary-artery-dissection
Published paper by Sarah and team from the registry
https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/46/21/2012/8058673
Sound Bites
"90% of SCAD patients are female."
"SCAD is not related to atherosclerosis."
"We let the vessel heal by itself in SCAD cases."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to SCAD and Women's Heart Health
02:52 Understanding SCAD: Symptoms and Diagnosis
06:04 Emergency Response and Patient Journey
08:58 Angiogram Procedures and SCAD Types
11:50 Research Findings on SCAD Outcomes
14:57 Treatment Protocols and Medication Considerations
17:44 Interventional Strategies and Stenting in SCAD
31:02 Introduction to Cardiac Conversations
31:03 Understanding Cardiac Health
Summary
This conversation delves into the complexities of dysautonomia and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), exploring the underlying mechanisms, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding the autonomic nervous system's role in these conditions, the challenges in diagnosing POTS, and the various treatment strategies available to manage symptoms effectively. The conversation also touches on the associated conditions and the impact of POTS on mental health and daily life.
Chapters
00:00 Understanding Dysautonomia and Its Terminology
07:17 The Mechanisms of Syncope and Vasovagal Responses
13:17 Exploring POTS: Symptoms and Hemodynamics
19:25 Diagnosis and Assessment of POTS
25:35 Associated Conditions and Challenges in POTS Management
31:20 Innovations in POTS Testing and Future Directions
36:04 Understanding POTS Diagnosis through Holter Monitoring
42:55 Evaluating Holter Monitor Results for POTS
51:00 Treatment Options for POTS: Medications and Management
01:00:23 Exploring the Role of IV Therapy in POTS Treatment
Summary
This episode of Cardiac Conversations focuses on a case study of Marie, a 76-year-old woman diagnosed with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HEF-PEF). The discussion covers her medical history, comorbidities, and the importance of patient education and management strategies for improving her condition. The episode emphasizes the complexities of HEF-PEF, including its differences from heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, and highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to care.
Case study and takeaways
Marie is a 76-year-old diagnosed with HEF-PEF.
Managing comorbidities is crucial for heart failure patients.
Education on fluid restriction is vital for Marie.
Atrial fibrillation requires careful management and education.
Weight management is essential for improving heart failure symptoms.
HEF-PEF is distinct from heart failure with reduced ejection fraction.
Microvascular disease impacts heart function in women.
Chronic kidney disease is a common comorbidity with HEF-PEF.
Physical deconditioning amplifies symptoms in heart failure patients.
Therapeutics and lifestyle changes can significantly improve patient outcomes.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Marie's Case Study
03:52 Understanding HEF-PEF: Key Characteristics and Risk Factors
06:55 The Complexities of HEF-PEF and Its Management
09:23 Managing Heart Failure and Comorbidities
11:29 Holistic Patient Support and Rehabilitation
12:18 educational-intro-low-short.wav
Hey there, and welcome to Cardiac Conversations—a podcast made for nurses, by a nurse, all about the world of cardiology.
I’m Charis, and I am a cardiac specialist trained nurse of over 20 years, with a masters of public health, a nutritionist and currently a cardiology nurse practitioner candidate.
Whether you’re a new nurse on the floor, a seasoned pro in CCU or somewhere in between, Cardiac Conversations is your go-to for practical, nurse-focused discussions on everything from ECGs and arrhythmias to heart failure, cardiac meds, code blues, and beyond.
Each week, we’ll break down complex topics into real-world insights you can apply on your next shift. We’ll dive into case studies, talk to expert guests, and cover the latest guidelines—always with a focus on what matters most to nurses at the bedside.
If you’ve ever thought, “I wish someone would just explain this clearly,” you’re in the right place.
Cardiac Conversations is launching soon, so hit follow and join the conversation—because great cardiac care starts with empowered nurses